St Vincent

Last updated: 16 January 2026

Overview

St Vincent has several anchorages and small bays suitable for cruising yachts. Facilities for visiting boats are limited compared to larger hubs, with most basic provisioning and repair options around Kingstown and the southern anchorages.

The coastline combines steep, forested slopes and smaller settlements. Some anchorages have relatively little shore‑side development compared with nearby islands.

Attractions

One of the notable highlights is the Darkview Waterfalls on the northwest of the island, usually reached by road from leeward anchorages such as Chateaubelair Bay, where a short walk through forest leads to a series of pools beneath the falls. ​

Young Island Cut on the south coast of St Vincent is a popular anchorage used by visiting yachts, and Fort Duvernette, a small rock outcrop with a fortification, is a short dinghy ride away.

Notes for mariners

The region around St Vincent experiences trade winds predominantly from northeast to southeast, providing favorable sailing conditions most of the year. Shelter and exposure varies between anchorages.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

Bambareaux Beach offers excellent holding in sand, ranging from 4 to 5 meters. Visitors frequently appreciate the clear water and abundance of snorkeling opportunities. Many have enjoyed the solitude of the cove, often having it to themselves.
Anchoring at Chateaubelair offers calm conditions and friendly local interactions. Visitors noted the helpfulness of locals like Kemroy, who assists with anchoring and tours. The area features clear water and tranquil landscapes, perfect for relaxation.
Grand Byahaut 4.8
The bay offers a well-protected anchorage with good holding. Visitors reported enjoyable snorkeling experiences, particularly on the south side. Conditions include minimal swell and the opportunity to relax in a natural setting.
Mt Wynne Bay 4.6
A peaceful and quiet anchorage offering well-protected space in sand. Visitors appreciate good snorkeling opportunities and the serene environment, highlighted by nature sounds. Some report high prices from local fishermen for their services.
Young Island 4.3
Visitors report good holding but mention that the anchorage can be very rolly. The location is advantageous for picking up friends from the airport, and staff interactions with Jimmy and Sparrow are highlighted positively.
Cumberland Bay 4.2
Cumberland Bay features well-protected anchoring, with easy assistance from local boat boys for securing lines. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and local produce offerings, with several options for meals at nearby restaurants. The overall experience is enhanced by the natural beauty and community engagement.
Anchoring here provides stunning scenery and a variety of local interactions. Visitors report enjoying clear customs procedures and beautiful hikes, though persistent local engagement can be overwhelming. Expect mixed experiences with local boat boys offering assistance and goods.
Buccament 3.8
Anchoring conditions vary, with some reports of good holding in deeper areas while others indicated poor holding close to the river mouth. Waves and wind shifts may complicate anchoring stability. Local interactions are generally positive, enhancing the experience.
Wallilabou Bay 3.4
Anchoring is possible around 20 to 25 meters deep, and some visitors reported friendly boat boys providing assistance. However, concerns about aggressive sales tactics and hull damage have been noted. Conditions may vary, affecting overall comfort during stays.

Marinas

Moored vessels face consistent swell and noise at this marina. Visitors reported jerky docks and good water pressure. Local amenities include restaurants, and taxi service to town is efficient.

Moorings

Shared mooring setups may raise concerns regarding safety. While some visitors find the moorings acceptable, others recommend careful attention to the lines. The restaurant provides decent meals, though there are cheaper options nearby.
Young Island 4.1
Mooring balls are generally in good condition. Some visitors experienced issues with currents causing misalignment, while others noted helpful service from staff like Jimmy and Sparrow. Proximity to loud bars can affect nighttime experiences.
Rock Side Cafe 4.0
Mooring here is supported by a free dinner at the restaurant. Assistance with mooring is available, though visitors reported consistent local sales pitches. The area, while safe, has noted issues with trash accumulation in the water.
Blue Lagoon 3.9
Mooring options are available at Blue Lagoon Marina, though it is noted to be quite rolly due to minimal protection from swell. Many visitors praise the helpful staff, especially for managing arrivals and departures, and they appreciate the proximity to local amenities.
Wallilabou Bay 3.9
An enjoyable atmosphere with friendly locals and good snorkeling opportunities are highlighted by visitors. However, inconsistent pricing for mooring assistance and mixed experiences with boat boys warrant caution. Ensuring clear discussions with boat boys before services may enhance the experience.

Yacht clearance links

Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines:

Ports of entry offices

Clearance procedures are generally straightforward, with customs and immigration staff being friendly. Visitors report potential additional fees on weekends and after hours, plus a need for vessel ownership documents. Accessibility varies, and operational hours can lead to delays.
Place details mention: opening hours, fees or payments, cruising permits, required documents.
Offers: Customs, and immigration.
It is necessary to pay fees for customs and immigration, which can total 70 EC. Waiting times may vary, as customs agents can arrive late. Visitors should be aware that electronic systems like Sailclear are not currently operational.
Place details mention: opening hours, fees or payments, cruising permits and required documents.
A significant concern regarding service at the customs office arises from reported negative experiences with staff behavior and charging practices. Multiple visitors have noted instances of aggressive or inconsistent requirements, leading to dissatisfaction. Delays in officer availability have also been mentioned.
Place details mention: opening hours, prearrival requirements, cruising permits and required documents.